Officials believe sinkhole deeper than originally thought

Officials report they believe the giant sinkhole is much deeper than originally thought and additional materials have surfaced.

According to the Assumption Parish Police Jury, John Boudreaux with the Assumption Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness has tagged the bottom center of the sinkhole, where the raindrop bubbles are occurring.

Authorities said the depth is more than 500 feet, although debris was felt at about 175 to 200 feet, while the weight continued to fall to the 500-foot depth.

Officials added there will be attempts this week to use a longer measuring device to determine the depth of what is suspected to be the "upside down witch's hat."

They reported more debris and hydrocarbon have risen to the top at the site.

Meanwhile, of the 92 homeowners that were offered a settlement for their homes, 59 have come to an agreement with Texas Brine.

The Assumption Parish Police Jury reported the area west of Grand Bayou along LA 70 is no longer under mandatory or voluntary evacuation orders because of the sinkhole, with the exception of a residential area near Bayou Corne.

The Assumption Parish Police Jury reported the area west of Grand Bayou along LA 70 is no longer under mandatory or voluntary evacuation orders because of the sinkhole, with the exception of a residential area near Bayou Corne.